Aroma Park, IL – Residents of Aroma Park and throughout Kankakee County are being asked to coordinate through official channels today as recovery efforts begin following a powerful EF-3 tornado that leveled homes and businesses on Tuesday.
According to United Way of Kankakee & Iroquois Counties Executive Director Mariah Vail, the organization is currently partnering with local leadership and the Committee on Active in Disasters (COAD) to manage the influx of residents eager to help. A volunteer interest form was launched Friday on the United Way website to assess skills and availability. Vail stated that while public passion to assist is high, it is critical to ensure volunteers are not sent into zones that have not yet been cleared of debris and downed power lines for safety reasons.
Information provided by the United Way indicates that only vetted disaster response organizations, including Team Rubicon and Samaritan’s Purse, were granted access to the hardest-hit areas on Friday. Officials are working to establish a central Volunteer Response Center to streamline the process as more zones are deemed safe for the general public.
According to relief coordinators, those looking to donate physical items are encouraged to visit specific drop-off locations such as SHINE.FM in Bourbonnais, Georgie’s Closet in Bradley, and Grace Christian Church on Waldron Road. Most-requested items reportedly include industrial garbage bags, bottled water, toiletries, and cleaning supplies. United Way officials noted that clothing donations are not being accepted at this time.
Financial contributions are allegedly being directed to the Emergency Response Fund, a partnership between the United Way and the Community Foundation of Kankakee River Valley. According to Vail, these funds allow the community to respond quickly by supporting local nonprofits that are helping families recover from the significant damage.
